Allergic Reactions to Commercial Soap

Have you ever wondered why your skin felt itchy after your shower or bath? Many people experience the same itchiness too but simply dismiss it without giving it much thought. Some people try changing the brands of soap and shower cremes, trying out one after another.

Most soap that you purchase at the supermarket is actually detergent with synthetic foaming agents added to form lots of lather when mixed with water. It is not able to moisturize your skin, as the glycerine of regular soap has been removed during the process of making the soap itself.

No matter how much you shower or lather, there would inevitably be some rough patches of skin around the heels, ankle bone, elbows, knees, and even the the finger tips, around the nails. Some types of moisturizers might help soften the skin for awhile.

There is a gawking difference between natural handmade soap and the regular commercial soap that you buy from the supermarkets. The drastic difference lies in the process of the soap making.

Commercial soap is made in huge quantities, using heat processing methods, as it is a faster way to make soap. The glycerin in the soap is isolated and removed as a by-product of the heat process, and sold separately as a highly expensive beauty product. As a result, the soap itself is devoid of glycerin. Fillers and synthetic fragrances are added to the soap to make it smell very nice. In fact, you can even smell it through the packaging! Though some commercial soap may contain essential oils, but these are ruined as chemicals are added to make the scent stronger. These chemicals and synthetic ingredients in the soap often cause allergic reactions to the skin, ranging from mild itchiness to severe dermatitis, psoriasis or eczema in sensitive skin.

Long term usage and constant exposure to these chemicals and detergent could sensitize your skin and destroy the natural protective layer of the skin, thus making the skin even more vulnerable to environmental stress.

In contrast, handmade soap is made in smaller batches using cold process which retains the natural glycerin inside the soap itself. When you use handmade soap made with natural essential oils and free from harmful chemicals, you will find that your skin texture will improve with regular use. The protective layer of your skin will be strengthened as it is nourished daily with essential oils. People who suffer from sensitive skin will find that their skin will be able to better endure environmental heat, cold and pollution. The natural essential oils would also strengthen and restore their immune system over time.